August 22,2011
Alexander Stoddard suggested what we feel, think and do this moment influences both our present and future in ways that we may never know. Begin. Start right where you are. Consider your possibilities and find inspiration… to add more meaning and zest to your life.
I woke up around 2a.m. (EST) this morning to the tears of my wife next to me. My chest sunk in. I prayed. Her tears soon subsided as she had lulled herself back to sleep. This is going to be harder than I thought. How do the peace keepers do it? A tear of sharp sadness and overwhelming joy fell from my eye; reminded of the outpouring generosity of friends and family to help us through this adventure. Everything is going to be ok.
We all woke up around 6:30 a.m.(EST) and made it to the airport by 10:30 am (EST). The mood was positive. The sun was shining. As we approached the airport, feelings of fear of the unknown began to swell in waves. But change is inevitable. I drew inspiration and trust from the following excerpt “For I know the plans I have for you”.
Once at the airport the piercing reality my adventure hit us square as we drew closer and closer to the security gate with my luggage, my boarding pass, and my passport in hand. The ache in my heart grew more intense with every step. Stopped at the mouth of the gate - holding my daughters in my arms brought me back when they were little. With great difficulty, my wife stayed strong for both their sake and mine. My daughter’s boyfriend was helpful and compassionate to the situation unfolding before him. Everyone’s eyes like faucets I could have held them all endlessly.
But I had to get going. As people started streaming by, I knew I had to get into line. Tearing me away from my family and moving into line was like quickly ripping a Band-Aid off an open wound. But it had to be done. Once in line, I would turn and wave between my own tears. I was so overwhelmed by the acuity of emotion it was slicing into my being. I realized how much I would miss them and yet how blessed I am to have such a beautiful family.
I slowly made it through security, glancing back at my family who had no choice but to stay at the entrance. Took off my belt and my shoes and put my gear onto the conveyer belt. At that point I see my youngest daughter on the shoulders of her sister’s boyfriend. It took everything in my power not to go back for one last hug. I continuously signed – “I LOVE YOU”. Once through security, I glanced back once more and they were gone.
I am now facing gate 177 alone. Who will I meet? Where will I live? What challenges and celebrations lay before me? I decide to make one last call to my family before I board the plane. Assurances that all will be well are exchanged. There is an overwhelming peace. Soothed, I called my dad who encouraged me and gave me his last pieces of advice.
“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1Cor 2:9)
No comments:
Post a Comment